Former Chute Boxe Trainer Helping Prepare Rogers for Fedor

Former Chute Boxe Academy striking trainer Sérgio Cunha has been enlisted to coach Brett Rogers in his Nov. 7 bid against the world’s No. 1 heavyweight, Fedor Emelianenko, at Strikeforce “Fedor vs. Rogers.”

Cunha has relocated to Minneapolis with his wife and children for three months to work with the undefeated Rogers. The muay Thai instructor is impressed with the progress thus far.

“I prepared an intense and special program for him using all the videos and information that I have about Fedor,” said Cunha. “I’m really impressed with how focused and professional Brett is. If he keeps training that way, he will reach the fight in great shape.”

Considered one of Brazil’s most profound striking coaches, Cunha helped spur on Mauricio “Shogun” Rua to his first-round knockout against former UFC light heavyweight champion Chuck Liddell at UFC 97 last April. In the past he has also worked with Wanderlei Silva, Anderson Silva, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira and B.J. Penn.

Cunha said the 28-year-old Rogers’ chances of besting the unflappable Emelianenko are much greater than most are thinking.

“I've known Fedor for a long time. He’s a complete fighter, but I can guarantee that Brett has a great chance of winning,” said Cunha. “Most people who see him think he is just a big guy who got lucky against (Andrei) Arlovski, but I can tell you people are wrong, because Rogers is a pretty complete fighter and very versatile for a heavyweight fighter. Fedor is the man to beat and that is motivating him a lot and also myself. One thing I can predict -- people will be surprised by Brett.”